Big Bus Tours Chicago Map
Introduction
Chicago is a city that offers something for everyone. From its stunning skyline to its vibrant culture, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring Chicago on the Big Bus Tours Chicago Map is an experience not to be missed. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Chicago has to offer.
Top Attractions
Millennium Park
Located in the heart of the city, Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions. The park boasts stunning architecture and public art installations, including the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as “The Bean”. Other highlights include the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, where outdoor concerts are held in the summer, and the Crown Fountain, which features two 50-foot glass towers that project images of Chicago residents.
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is home to one of the finest art collections in the world, with more than 300,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years of human history. Highlights include works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso, as well as the iconic American Gothic painting by Grant Wood.
Hidden Gems
The 606 Trail
The 606 Trail is an elevated park and trail system that runs through several Chicago neighborhoods. The trail offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to bike, jog, or walk. Along the trail, you will also find public art installations, gardens, and community events.
The Violet Hour
The Violet Hour is a speakeasy-style bar located in the Wicker Park neighborhood. The bar offers a rotating menu of craft cocktails and an intimate atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date.
Food Scene
Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a must-try when visiting the city. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, Giordano’s, and Gino’s East are all popular spots to grab a slice.
Hot Dogs
Chicago-style hot dogs are another iconic food in the city. Portillo’s and Superdawg are two popular spots to grab a hot dog with all the fixings.
Budget-friendly Tips
Free Museum Days
Many of Chicago’s museums offer free admission on select days of the week. The Art Institute of Chicago is free for Illinois residents on Thursdays from 5-8pm, while the Museum of Contemporary Art is free on Tuesdays.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a scenic walkway that runs along the Chicago River. It’s a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the city’s architecture, and it’s free to access.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking on the Chicago River
Kayaking on the Chicago River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Kayak Chicago offers guided tours and rentals for all skill levels.
Chicago Lakefront Trail
The Chicago Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile path that runs along Lake Michigan. The trail offers stunning views of the lake and the city skyline, and it’s a great place to bike, jog, or walk.
Historical Landmarks
The Chicago Theatre
The Chicago Theatre is a historic landmark and one of the city’s most iconic buildings. The theater opened in 1921 and has hosted countless concerts, plays, and comedy shows over the years.
The Chicago Water Tower
The Chicago Water Tower is one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The tower is now a symbol of the city’s resilience and serves as a museum dedicated to the fire.
Family-friendly Activities
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo located in the heart of the city. The zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including an amusement park, boat rides, and an IMAX theater.
Off-the-beaten-path Experiences
The Robie House
The Robie House is a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home located in the Hyde Park neighborhood. The home is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture and is open for guided tours.
The Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is a botanical garden located on the city’s west side. The conservatory features six greenhouses and a variety of outdoor gardens, including a children’s garden and a sensory garden.
Natural Wonders
The Chicago Lakefront
The Chicago Lakefront offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The lakefront also features several beaches, including North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach.
The Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700-acre nature preserve located in the western suburbs of Chicago. The arboretum features more than 4,000 species of trees and shrubs, as well as several walking trails and gardens.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Second City
The Second City is a comedy club and theater that has launched the careers of many famous comedians, including Tina Fey and Steve Carell. The theater offers a variety of shows and improv classes.
The Green Mill
The Green Mill is a historic jazz club located in the Uptown neighborhood. The club has been around since 1907 and has hosted many famous jazz musicians over the years, including Al Capone’s favorite band.
Local Markets
The Chicago French Market
The Chicago French Market is a year-round indoor market located in the West Loop. The market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other specialty foods.
The Logan Square Farmers Market
The Logan Square Farmers Market is a weekly outdoor market that runs from May to October. The market features local farmers and artisans selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
North Avenue Beach
North Avenue Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Chicago. The beach offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a great place to swim, sunbathe, or play volleyball.
Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park is a scenic park located about 100 miles southwest of Chicago. The park features 13 miles of hiking trails and stunning views of canyons and waterfalls.
Cultural Immersion
The National Museum of Mexican Art
The National Museum of Mexican Art is a free museum located in the Pilsen neighborhood. The museum features a collection of more than 10,000 works of Mexican art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
The DuSable Museum of African American History
The DuSable Museum of African American History is located on the city’s south side and features a collection of more than 15,000 artifacts and works of art related to African American history and culture.
Art and Music Scene
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is one of the world’s best orchestras and performs at Symphony Center in the Loop. The orchestra offers a variety of concerts throughout the year.
The Art on theMART
The Art on theMART is a public art installation that projects large-scale artwork onto the faรงade of the Merchandise Mart building in the Loop. The installation features the work of local and international artists.
Walking Tours
The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise
The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise is a popular way to see the city’s stunning architecture. The cruise offers a guided tour of the city’s most iconic buildings and landmarks.
The Chicago Pedway Tour
The Chicago Pedway is a network of underground tunnels and walkways that connect many of the city’s downtown buildings. The Pedway Tour offers a guided tour of this unique part of the city.
Architectural Marvels
The Willis Tower
The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is one of the tallest buildings in the world. The tower